Estrela Mountain Dog
Table of contents
Breed Information | |
|---|---|
Another Name | Portuguese Shepherd |
Origin | Portugal |
Height | Males 65-73 + 2 cm Females 62-69 + 2 cm |
Weight | Males 45-60 kg Females 35-45 kg |
Fur | Stiff, slightly wavy |
Colors | Gray, gray with yellowing, field, red, black and tiger |
Lifespan | 11-13 years |
ICF Classification | Pinschers and Schnauzers, Molossers, Mountain Dogs and Swiss Cattle Dogs |
Group | Watchdogs, for protection (guard dogs) |
Price | $600-900 |
Breed photos
Features of the breed
History of Origin
The breed is considered one of the most ancient species on the Iberian Peninsula. Scientists concede that distant ancestors of the Estrela Mountain Dog appeared on the peninsula during the Roman Empire’s prosperity.
In the beginning, they were used as guards of the house, protectors of people, and carriers of goods. For a long time, dogs were used only in villages where they lived near homes, and almost no one knew about them. But with the advent of new technology, interest in the breed has increased, and since the XX century, cynologists were able to breed dogs of new colors. Thus, in 1934, an official standard was adopted. Outside of their native country, the dogs are little known.
Appearance: height, weight, fur, color
Estrela Mountain Dog is a large, powerful build, has a large size that causes fear and respect. There are two kinds of dogs – short-haired (very few of them survived), long-haired.
The dog has a rectangular body, strong and long paws. The ears used to be cropped, but now it is not done. The hair on the head and paws is slightly shorter than the rest of the body. On the neck is formed a mane. On the paws – comb.
The height of males can be 65-73 + 2 cm, of females 62-69 + 2 cm. Also, males have more weight than females (males 45-60 kg, females 35-45 kg).
The eyes are medium-sized, almond-shaped. The hair of the dog is stiff, maybe slightly wavy. The back, chest, and tail have a longer coat than the rest of the body. Some dogs have a light undercoat and a thick collar around the neck.
The Character
The dog is well-balanced and tends to make decisions independently and take responsibility. From childhood, you need to teach the Estrela Mountain Dog that the boss in the house has leadership qualities and can show stubbornness and disobedience.
Possesses courage, self-confidence, and high intelligence. The Estrela Mountain Dog likes to play a lot and has a sporting passion. Therefore, you can easily participate in various competitions with it.
They have significant reactions and can go from lying down to fighting in a second. They are distrustful of strangers and need to be socialized from an early age, walk a lot on the street where there are people. It is not desirable to breed for those who want to get a friend because the Astrakhan shepherd is primarily a working breed and requires a lot of physical activity.
Care
Dogs are unpretentious, but their long hair requires a little attention.
Comb the hair once a week, if the period of molting – repeat the procedure every other day. It is recommended to bathe not more than three times a year. At the same time, use a special shampoo.
Once a week, it is essential to check the ears, eyes, and teeth for cleanliness. The eyes can be rinsed with tea brew. Clean the ears gently with a damp cloth or cotton swab. It will help prevent infections.
A special deontological treat will help clean the teeth and mouth from dirt. Usually, the claws are trimmed on their own, but they should be carefully cut if this does not happen.
Training
It is challenging to train and educate the Astrakhan sheepdog. After all, the dog is stubborn and independent. It doesn’t need the owner’s permission to get into a fight over territory.
You should walk the dog where there are other people and animals and train the sheepdog to behave correctly from an early age. If he behaves well, obeys, you can praise him and encourage him with a treat.
Because of its affection and love for its owner, the Astrakhan sheepdog will always try to please. But only if the owner is a real authority.
Common diseases
The Astrakhan sheepdog rarely gets sick and has a robust immune system. Thanks to its coat, it can bear bad weather conditions calmly.
But the pet can develop hip dysplasia. Therefore, it is essential to monitor the physical activity of puppies closely.
Nutrition
It is recommended to feed natural food. There should always be meat in the diet, also do not forget about cereals, fruits, vegetables. You can give cottage cheese, eggs. Once a week, you can give fish, but it should be thoroughly cleaned of bones before that.
